When trying matured sake for the first time, it is hard to know what you like.
After drinking several bottles in a row, you will gradually begin to grasp your own preferences, and then you can seek out similar brands.
This back-and-forth can be fun, but it can be hard to take that first step.
As the author of this email newsletter, I myself was in the same situation, so I understand this concern very well.
To help you, we have created a trial set from the many varieties of matured sake to create an affordable, high-quality tasting selection and make it easier for you to identify your preferences.
In this article, we introduce the first set.
To simplify from the drinker's perspective, matured sake can be divided into mid-meal sake and after-meal sake (or sake that is easy to enjoy on its own).
(From the perspective of winemakers and professional tasters, many of the latter are particularly appealing when paired with specific dishes, but we will not be looking in that level of detail. Thank you for your understanding!)
The first set is a combination of two brands of mid-meal sake and one brand of after-meal sake.
Both mid-meal sakes display the charm of aging and are easy to pair with a wide range of dishes. They also have the potential to become even more appealing with continued maturation.
Search for Your Favorities! Trial Set
1) Kotori no Saezuri Junmai Ginjo 2016 from Shinkame Brewery
As sake matures, you will first notice a mellowness that is not present in new sake. Taste elements such as umami, sourness, and slight bitterness gradually blend to create a well-balanced finish, a common feature of high-quality matured sake.
On the other hand, you may also detect unique matured aromas (sweet nuances like caramel, or nutty aromas, etc.) as well as elements such as spices and herbs that enhance the breadth and depth of flavor.
Kotori no Saezuri does not emphasize the matured aroma or the complexity of the flavor (of course, it is hidden in the background if you look for it) but instead has a mellow balance of crisp umami and acidity. It is an excellent sake to drink with a wide range of dishes, and you will never tire of drinking it.
When heated to a higher temperature, the sake balance expands, taking on a "one-class higher physique." Its bold umami and acidity go well with steak and other meat dishes.
(2) Karesansui Tokubetsu Junmai 10-year matured from Dewazakura Sake Brewery.
On the other hand, the Karesansui 10-year-matured is a type that clearly displays the complexity (aroma and taste) of maturation. It also has a mellowness that comes with maturation and leaves a lasting impression with a gentle mouthfeel.
It is a gentle yet powerful sake that pairs well with strong-flavored Chinese food and yakiniku. It is also delicious served warm.
For after-meal drinks, we have selected fine sake that offers both sweetness and complexity.
(3) Enoki Shuzo Hanahato Kijoshu Oak Barrel matured (After-meal Drink)
This sake has a rich but not cloying sweetness, complex aroma, and long aftertaste, which makes for a beautiful dessert drink with a strong umami flavor.
(Although it is a different brand, Hanahato's Kijoshu was also served at the Hiroshima Summit.)
◇ Product name: Search for Your Favorities! Trial Set
Price: Regular price 9,900 yen, set special price 9,400 yen (tax included)
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